The vest has been around for over a century, offering a clean and formal look for men. Unfortunately, though, many men are hesitant to wear one, fearing it will hurt their appearance. As with most garments, there’s a right way and a wrong way to wear a vest. So if you’re thinking about sporting one, keep reading for some essential tips on how to wear it — the right way!
Finding the Right Fit
The first step towards sporting a fashionable vest is to choose the right fit. No two men have the same body shape or size, which is why it’s important to choose the right sized vest.
When shopping for a vest, pay close attention to the shoulders. The shoulders of the vest should sit flat, without any “poofing” of bunching. If there’s excess fabric in the shoulders, try a smaller size. Wearing an oversized vest is a recipe for fashion disaster, so don’t make this mistake. In addition to the shoulders, you should also check the chest/torso. The vest should contour to the shape of your body, while still allowing you to freely move your arms up and down.
What About the Buttons?
Some vests have three buttons, while others have four, five or even six buttons. Assuming your vest has a minimum of three buttons, a good rule of thumb is to leave the bottom button unfastened. This is the same rule that applies to formal suit coats and jackets.
When to Wear a Vest
Not all occasions are suitable for a vest, so it’s important to know when to wear one. Weddings are a great time to wear a vest. If you’ve been invited to attend a friend or family member’s wedding, perhaps you should wear a vest with a suit. While there’s no rule stating that you must wear one, doing so adds a new dynamic to your outfit while enhancing your look in the process.
Rules to Follow When Wearing a Vest
- Make sure your vest matches your suit.
- Don’t make the mistake of choosing a vest color that clashes with your necktie and/or shoes.
- Pair your vest with a suit jacket or coat for a bolder look.
- Wear a long-sleeved, button-up dress shirt under your vest
- For a more formal look, choose a vest with lapels.
- Press your vest before wearing it.
- Keep your necktie tucked all the way into your vest.
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